Car Hire in Cape Town

Cape Town’s road network makes it easy to explore both the city and the surrounding regions. With a rental car, you can drive from the city centre to the Cape Winelands, down the scenic Atlantic coastline to Cape Point, or along the Garden Route.

Car Hire in Cape Town


Fleet of rental 4x4 vehicles in South Africa or similar

4.9 star rating from 91 reviews

Rent a Car in Cape Town

Our expert consultant, Claudene Petersen, has selected four vehicles that might interest you. Book a vehicle, and our dedicated team will be available to assist you with any questions.

Hire a Compact Car in Cape Town

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3 Reasons You Can Trust Drive South Africa

Ample choices

We have a wide selection of vehicles for every need and preference.

Value for money

Our great prices ensure maximum value for your budget.

Rental expertise

We have an expert team providing seamless and reliable rental services.

What Our Cape Town Travellers Have to Say

Still unsure? Read testimonials from satisfied Drive South Africa customers who have explored Cape Town and its surroundings.

Siyabonga Mbengashe

Thanks guys for opportunity I used your service before while I was in JHB in this trip I was going to Umtata with my staff...

August, 2018

George Du Preez

I got what I expected and was especially impressed by the ease of the process in returning the car. The car ran smooth, the little...

August, 2018

Dirk Janssens

I can only say good things about Drive South Africa. The car we rented was according the specifications. And the assistance we got after we...

October, 2015

Thelocalchoice Eksteenpharmacy

WOW! Extremely fast & efficient with communications!

March, 2021

Andreas Franke

Alles super geklappt, Auto war ok u die Campingausrüstung sehr gut. Flughafentransfer ohne Probleme. Gerne wieder.

April, 2016

Russell Davenport

The vehicle we hired was very clean and most of all reliable. I was concerned before I got to Namibia but was very relieved to...

August, 2018

Top Tips for Cape Town Car Rental

Best Cars to Hire in Cape Town

For city driving and short trips, compact cars like the Volkswagen Polo Vivo, Toyota Starlet, or Kia Picanto are fuel-efficient and easy to manoeuvre. If you’re planning longer journeys or travelling with family, consider a Toyota Corolla Quest or a Volkswagen T-Cross for added comfort and space.

Exploring Nearby Destinations

With a standard vehicle, you can comfortably visit:

  • Stellenbosch and Franschhoek: Renowned wine regions just an hour’s drive away.
  • Hermanus: A coastal town famous for whale watching.
  • Chapman’s Peak Drive: A scenic coastal road offering breathtaking views.

Collecting Your Vehicle at Cape Town International Airport

Cape Town International Airport (CPT) hosts several car rental agencies. Upon arrival, follow the signs to the car rental centre, where you can pick up your pre-booked vehicle and begin your journey seamlessly.

What To Do If You're in an Accident in Cape Town

  1. Stop immediately and check for injuries.
  2. Call emergency services at 112 if medical assistance is needed.
  3. Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible.
  4. Report the incident to the local police.
  5. Contact your rental provider promptly.
  6. Document the scene with photos and gather relevant information.
  7. Visit the nearest police station within 24 hours to file a formal report.

How To Stay Safe in Cape Town

  • Always lock your vehicle and keep valuables out of sight.
  • Avoid driving in unfamiliar areas after dark.
  • Be cautious of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in urban areas.
  • Observe speed limits and road signs.

FAQs About Hiring a Car in Cape Town

A valid driver’s license in English is accepted. If not in English, an International Driving Permit is recommended.

Yes, automatic vehicles are available. Specify your preference when booking.

Yes, with standard precautions. Stick to well-travelled routes and avoid isolated areas at night.

Standard insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and optional extras like GPS or child seats.

Yes, most rental agreements allow interprovincial travel. Confirm with your provider.

Cape Town Partner Information

Explore our trusted partners in Cape Town, their locations, and customer ratings.

6 Locations in Cape Town
  • Europcar Cape Town City Centre
  • Europcar Cape Town International Airport
  • Europcar Claremont
  • Europcar Goodwood
  • Europcar Montague Gardens
  • Europcar Tygervalley
2 Locations in Cape Town
  • Hertz Cape Town City Centre
  • Hertz Cape Town International Airport
2 Locations in Cape Town
  • Sani Car Rental Cape Town International Airport
  • Sani Car Rental Green Point Cape Town
4 Locations in Cape Town
  • First Car Rental Bellville
  • First Car Rental Cape Town City Centre
  • First Car Rental Cape Town International Airport
  • First Car Rental Tokai
5 Locations in Cape Town
  • Tempest Car Hire Cape Town City Centre
  • Tempest Car Hire Cape Town International Airport
  • Tempest Car Hire Claremont
  • Tempest Car Hire Montague Gardens
  • Tempest Car Hire N1 City Goodwood (Bellville)
2 Locations in Cape Town
  • Bluu Cape Town City Centre
  • Bluu Cape Town International Airport
3 Locations in Cape Town
  • Avis Cape Town Downtown
  • Avis Cape Town International Airport
  • Avis Wynberg
1 Location in Cape Town
  • Kenings Car Van and Truck Hire Cape Town International Airport
View All Partners